The fruits of the ornamental or dwarf orange calamondin are perfectly edible, but are often described as almost inedible. They should taste sour and/or bitter and not be particularly juicy. This may be due to an inappropriate location.
The fruits of the calamondin are edible but not particularly tasty
The calamondin orange is a cross between a tangerine and a kumquat and comes from China. It can be found commercially under various botanical names. With its dark green glossy leaves and white flowers, it is a real ornament for your conservatory even without fruit. The intense scent is very refreshing and pleasant.
How do I care for my ornamental orange?
Like many other fruits, the ornamental orange needs a lot of light to ripen. Only then does the bright orange color develop, but also the sweetness in the fruit. In summer, the ornamental orange feels very comfortable in a wind-protected place in the garden or on the balcony. However, the plant must be slowly acclimated to the blazing sun so that the leaves do not burn.
Water your ornamental orange daily, possibly twice a day in high temperatures, but be sure to avoid waterlogging. Special citrus fertilizer ensures optimal nutrient supply. Fertilize your ornamental orange weekly from March to October. This attractive plant feels at home all year round in a bright living room or conservatory. So that it doesn't get too big, it can be cut regularly into shape.
The ornamental orange in winter
The ornamental orange is not hardy and does not particularly like temperatures below about 10 °C. Ideally, you overwinter the plant in a bright conservatory at temperatures around 10 °C. The warmer and lighter it is in the winter quarters, the more water the ornamental orange needs. However, you should completely avoid fertilizing until the first sprouting in spring.
The essentials in brief:
- Fruits are edible but may be sour and/or bitter
- needs a lot of light
- allowed in the garden in summer
- gradually get used to the blazing sun
- protect from wind and draughts
- Protect root ball from overheating
- water daily
- Avoid waterlogging
- Fertilize weekly from March to October
- use good quality citrus fertilizer
- Regular pruning allowed
tips
In order for your ornamental orange to develop the coveted fruits, you should offer the plant optimal conditions: lots of light and a good supply of water and special fertilizer.